JAKARTA (indo.com): A diving operator has expressed concern over the use of explosives as a means of catching fish in dive sites in Pelabuhan Ratu, saying that it poses a threat to the marine life. "The explosives have affected not only fish but also other species," said Thea of Octopus Dive in Pelabuhan Ratu recently.

Though the use of explosive has not reached alarming levels, preventive measures should be taken. "Continuous use of explosives will further endanger marine life," she said, adding that the government should issue a regulation prohibiting fish hunters from using explosives in dive sites.

Surrounded by the Indian Ocean off the south coast of West Java, Pelabuhan Ratu offers dive sites with a diverse wealth of marine life. Experienced divers cite Karang Antuk, the primadona site, as being comparable to both the Maldives and Bunaken in North Sulawesi. The diverse wealth of tropical marine life inhabits coral-encrusted volcanic outcrops to the south of the bay. Several sites offering an abundance of marine life can be reached from the dive camp at Pelabuhan Ratu, including various larger species. "Once in a while, a big shark from Australia passes, providing real excitement," said Jendy, also a dive master.

The dive sites are reached by taking a one-hour speedboat ride from the pier. "Quite frequently porpoises will follow behind your boat on the way," Thea said. A typical trip consists of a 7.30 departure from the pier, starting your first dive around 9.00am. After a suitable surface interval and a chance for briefing, the second dive takes you up to lunchtime and back to your hotel.

Karang Antuk is the primadona for the dive sites, yet the more challenging currents and different views mean it is best suited for experience divers. Ranging from 2m to 35m in depth, an underwater two-kilometer long rocky mountain provides magnificent views. Attractions include sunfish, popato cod, jackfish, angel fish, butterfly fish, batfish, goole eye, sotong (cuttle fish), lobster, grouper and pipe fish.

The best season for diving is May to July. "Groups also come out of season to experience the dive sites here," she said, adding: "Professional divers usually like to dive in new dive sites and the cost is not an issue." Other wonderful dive sites include Sodong Barat, Batu Keris, Batu Kuok, and Batu Belah. At Batu Kuok divers will be treated to a variety of fish including lion fish, sweet lips, trigger fish, scorpion fish, damselfish, nudibranchs, moray eels, eagle ray (blue spotted), bararacuda, parrot fish, trigger and snapper.